"Spider-Gwen #3" is Pretty and Amazing

SPIDER GWEN #3 - Reviewed by Albert Avilla

STORY: Jason Latour
PENCILS: Robbi Rodriguez
COLORS: Rico Renzi
LETTERS: VC's Clayton Cowles

SPOILER ALERT

When I saw the title of this book, I said, “Spider what? Huh?”  Then, the old saying came back to me, “Don't judge a book by the cover.”  My new saying is don't judge a comic book by its title, because the covers have been awesome.

I have been enjoying this reality where Peter Parker dies and everyone lives.  The direction that the characters' lives have taken is compelling.  It's like the old “What If” stories on steroids.  My favorite is “What If... the Punisher was a cop?”  I can't wait to see what direction that is going.  Are there any police brutality considerations?

The relationship dynamic between Gwen and her father is interesting.  You raise a child to stand up for what is right; then, when she has the power to make a difference, you are concerned about her safety.  Uncle Ben and Aunt May are hinted at being more than the elderly-couple-next-door.  Gwen is going to have all these righteous people influencing her.

While I am reading, I am imagining all of these story lines that can arise from all of these fragments, but I know this is all going on a completely different tangent.  That is what makes this book so intriguing; there is so much potential for fascinating stories.

The action scenes in the story are thrilling.  You get a different style of Spider-Man fight.  Shout out to whoever came up with the idea of getting Gwen to use bowling pins and a trophy as nunchucks.  This is a story that keeps the neurons in your brain firing and your breath short.

Robbi Rodriguez has a unique style of art.  The art is just as important as the text in the storytelling.  Spider-Gwen's costume is amazing.  When she is in a panel, your attention is drawn to the character; the character is glowing in the panel.  The use of white and red is artistic brilliance.  It gives Spider-Gwen a unique look in the “Spider World.”  The covers have been beautiful with Gwen in some cool “Spider-poses.”

I rate Spider Gwen #3 Buy Your Own Copy (#2 on the Al-o-Meter)

The text is copyright © 2015 Albert Avilla. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.

Review: Creative Team Makes "SUPERMAN #38" Super

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

SUPERMAN #38

STORY: Geoff Johns
PENCILS: John Romita, Jr.
INKS: Klaus Janson
COLORS: Laura Martin, Ulises Arreola, Dan Brown, Wil Quintana
LETTERS: Sal Cipriano

Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster

SPOILER ALERT

The Men of Tomorrow: Chapter 7 - “Friends and Enemies”

I don't read a lot of Superman stories, but recently, I have been able to read this story arc.  The hype machine got me interested in learning about Superman's new power.  Why does he need a new power?  He is already the head, number-one, ass-kicker in the DC Universe.  But growth is good.  We don't want stagnant characters.

I feel fortunate that I got lucky to read this story because of some key events.  Superman makes a catastrophic mistake that has catastrophic consequences.  This makes him more fallible, not the all powerful super-being who can accomplish anything.  I would have liked to see him a little upset about the situation, not just jump back into his regular routine without a pause.  He is sympathetic toward Ulysses, but I think Geoff Johns misses a chance to demonstrate Superman's human side and to get us in our emotions (new slang that I learned from the kids).

Of course, the new power is a big event.  I like that it evolves from a power that Superman already has, and it leaves him vulnerable after he uses it. A real hero puts his life on the line.  I don't want him to use this power like fireworks on the Fourth of July.  My question is simple:  is this the final manifestation of this power or will it evolve?

That's not the only bomb that Superman drops on us.  Superman reveals his secret identity to Jimmy Olsen.  Now, Jimmy is Superman's best friend.

This is one of Mr. John's best offerings.  He has met the standard set by his own talent.  We can appreciate the masters, John Romita and Klaus Janson, on this art team.  From the Fourth Dimension to Metropolis to Superman exploding, the art is exquisite and sublime. These gentlemen are focused on making Superman the pinnacle of comic art.

I rate Superman #38 Buy Your Own Copy (#2 on the Al-o-Meter)


The text is copyright © 2015 Albert Avilla. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.

Review: "Batman Eternal #52" Offers a Great End to a Great Series

BATMAN ETERNAL #52

STORY: Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV (with Ray Fawkes, Kyle Higgins, Tim Seeley)
SCRIPT: James Tynion IV
ART: Eduardo Pansica and Julio Ferreira; Robson Rocha and Guillermo Ortego; David Lafuente; Tim Seeley; Ray Fawkes
COLORS: Allen Passalaqua; Gabe Eltaeb; John Kalisz; John Rauch
LETTERS: Steve Wands
COVER: Jae Lee with June Chung
VARIANT COVER: Andy Kubert with Brad Anderson

Batman created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger

SPOILER ALERT

The conclusion of the weekly Batman epic, Batman Eternal, is here.  First, shout out to all the creative people who played a part in bringing us this year-long adventure.  Batman Eternal #52 is one of those inspiring stories that makes you remember why you're a Batman fan.

This is a story about heroes, both super and everyday.  Batman is brought to the lowest point that we have seen him.  He is tortured and beat-down to within an inch of his life.  He is a beaten man, deprived of all his technology.  What saves him is the inspiration of others.

In a wonderful piece of writing, the writers have Jim Gordon make an impassioned speech to the people of Gotham to come to Batman's rescue.  Then, we truly see that Batman is eternal.  Even if he would have died at the moment, his legacy would have lived on.  It never comes to this because all the people who Batman has inspired come to his rescue.

This is the aspect of Batman that sets him apart from other superheroes.  Batman is an inspiration to others to find the strength to fight against unimaginable odds for the greater good.  The admirable thing about the story is it concluded with action and put the happy ending stuff all in one issue.  I hate to waste my money on an issues that are all happy endings.

Overall, this is a good ending to 52 weeks of DC's greatest character, giving us mystery, intrigue, and action in epic proportions.  This team of writers needs to take that deep breath and do whatever they do to reward themselves when they accomplish the monumental task.

There are so many artists on the Batman Eternal creative team; some deserve praise; some don't.  I'll leave it to the beholder to decide for themselves.

I rate Batman Eternal #52 Buy Your Own Copy (#2 on the Al-o-Meter)

The text is copyright © 2015 Albert Avilla. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.

Review: "The Uncanny Inhumans #0" Has Soule Power

THE UNCANNY INHUMANS #0

WRITER: Charles Soule
PENCILER: Steve McNiven
INKER: Jay Leisten
COLORIST: Justin Ponsor
LETTERER: VC's Clayton Cowles
COVER: Steven McNiven with  Justin Ponsor
VARIANT COVERS: Simone Bianchi; Jim Cheung; Jerome Opena; Siya Oum; Mike Perkins with Christian Ward

“Things to Come” Double-Page Spread by Brandon Peterson

“End Times”

Marvel has been pumping up the Inhumans for a while.  They have been popping up all over the Marvel Universe.  Inhumans and Ms. Marvel have been two good additions to the Marvel line-up of series.  Now, they give us The Uncanny Inhumans.  Everybody is “uncanny” these days.  I can't wait until the Uncanny Power Pack hits the stands.

Back to the reason for this review:  As an appetizer for the main course, The Uncanny Inhumans #0 left my mouth watering.  Charles Soule subtly foreshadows future conflicts that Black Bolt and the Inhumans will be facing.  Just in this issue, we get to see some street level crime, some royal family drama, father-son conflict, and an evil master of time.  Soule piqued my interest with each of these story lines.

With Black Bolt, a writer has to use other characters and events to direct us through the story line.  Even then, we can only assume what Black Bolt's intentions are in relation to the true direction of the story.  Medusa claims that she knows what Black Bolt is thinking, but who really knows.  Black Bolt is the biggest mystery in his own stories.  Soule uses this aspect of the character to build our anticipation of coming events.  Oh, yeah!  Black Bolt is an awesome “insert your own slang.”  Mine included a lot of profanity and bureaucrat was not one.

As a “0” issue, this has been one of the best reads in awhile, and Soule was effective in his use of what is basically a preview of things to come.  Most of the time, “0” issues are epic fails, and I don't like to waste energy on them.

“Evolution”
Writer: Ryan Stegman; Artist: Ryan Lee; Colors: James Campbell

Marvel was so kind as to give us a bonus feature in The Uncanny Inhumans #0.  Like we are willing to give $5 for anything they deem worthy.  This was a cool back-up featuring Iso and Flint.  We get good action, and the characters reach turning points in their lives.  This story added a different flavor to the issue.  The issue just keeps drawing you into the Inhuman universe.

This is the book for all comic book art aficionados.  Give all the artists who worked on this issue their credit.  You go through page after page of beautiful Steve McNiven art; then, BAM! you get hit with the Brandon Peterson spread.  This is the kind of art that makes you feel like you owe Marvel some money.  I wonder if Peterson saw McNiven's art before he did his spread and knew he had to turn up.  Wait.  I'm going back and look at this book again.

I rate this issue “Buy Your Own Copy” (#2 on the Al-o-Meter), and the art alone is worth every penny!

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

The text is copyright © 2015 Albert Avilla. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.

Review: Guggenheim, Tolibao and Soy Thrill Reviewer with X-MEN #22

X-MEN #22 (2013)
MARVEL COMICS – @Marvel

WRITER: Marc Guggenheim
PENCILS: Harvey Tolibao, Dexter Soy
INKS: Harvey Tolibao, Dexter Soy, Norman Lee
COLORS: Paul Mounts
LETTERS: VC's Joe Caramagna
COVER: Terry Dodson and Rachel Dodson
28pp, Color, $3.99 U.S.

[SPOILER ALERT!]

“Exogenous” Conclusion

These are my girls.  This is a team of hardcore, bad-ass women.  Back in the day, when Chris Claremont was developing strong female characters, did anyone think that it would come to this?

Broodskulls:  thank you, Mr. Guggenheim for ruining my sleep.  Mutants, aliens, genetically altered beings, living spaceships, a vampire, and a pregnant Deathbird with her mad-on:  what else could an adventure-loving fan boy ask for?

Action, there is plenty of that for you to enjoy.  The team has to fight off an overwhelming horde of Bloodskrulls.  Deathbird kills Manifold Tyger.  Jubilee and Monet have to revive a dead Storm..  Then, we get this awesome montage of a heroine beating down the horde.  Sharada Darthris tries to escape once she sees her plans fall apart, but the heroines handle that.  Guggenheim also ties up the underlying conflict between Rachel and the Shiar advisor, D'Keth, who had advised that the Shiar destroy the Grey family line.  Read this and learn what a true heroine is.

I don't know how I'm going to express how beautiful the art is.  I would take any panel in this book, frame it, and put it on my wall.  Every time I look at the art, I find another detail that makes “Marvel” at the talent of these artists.  Look at the eyes.  I am a fan.

I rate X-Men #22: Buy Your Own Copy (#2 on the Al-O-Meter).

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Review: Hickman's Writing is Great in AVENGERS #39

AVENGERS #39
MARVEL COMICS – @Marvel

WRITER: Jonathan Hickman
ART: Mike Deodato
COLORS: Frank Martin
LETTERS: VC's Cory Petit
COVER: Alan Davis and Mark Farmer with Brad Anderson
28pp, Color, $3.99 U.S.

“You Can't Win: Part 1”

This is how you kick off a new story arc.  Jonathan Hickman tells the story in a message from Reed Richards to Val Ventura.  Back in the day, we would have called this a letter, but I don't know, now.  Is this an email, a post on Facebook, a tweet, or Instagram?  This social media stuff is just moving so fast that I can't keep up.

Knowing Reed, he probably found a way to insert it into one of Val's genes and it will manifest itself after Val goes through puberty.  Reed is teaching Val how to make plans.  He is using the Illuminati's conflict with Captain America and S.H.I.E.L.D. to illustrate the lesson.  Hickman's use of the chess piece to let us know that these plans are strategies for winning a war, not landscaping.

Everything about this story is grandiose, or if you prefer, it goes hard.  Cap falls into Reed's trap when he knows it is a trap.  War Machine is stretching himself to limits that may kill him.  Captain Marvel is talking stuff about the Hulk.  The action is spectacular.  I am talking about “are you read to rumble?!” action.  Hickman entertains us on multiple levels.  This is one of those times that reading a comic book added something to my life.

Visceral as well as cerebral:  the scene with Captain Marvel and the Hulk shows us why you need to be able to do what you say you can do.  I won't tell the end of the story, but I will say that Reed teaches Cap and Val the lesson well.

Hickman is a master at telling team stories.  Reed was the focus of this story, but all of the characters have their individual moments.  I'll say this again:  the ending is awesome.  Hickman tells a great epic while giving us great insight into the character of Reed Richards.  If this is the set-up, then, the rest of this arc will be something at which to Marvel.  Yeah, I said that corny bull.  Hickman has given us stories worthy of comic's ultimate team.

The art is pleasing to the eyes.  The facial expressions of the characters helps to depict what is happening in the story.  I said that the story was grandiose, and the art follows in the same vein.  The art is big without giving you the feeling that it 's just taking up space.  The only criticism that I have is that the colors are too dark.  I like my Avengers bright.

I give Avengers #39 a rating of “Recommend it to a Friend,” #1 (of 5) – the top rating on the Al-O-Meter.  If you're a comic book fan you need to be reading this book.

Reviewed by Albert Avilla


The text is copyright © 2015 Albert Avilla. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.

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Albert Avilla Review: All-New X-Men #11

All New X-Men 011

Review by Albert Avilla

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Pencils: Stuart Immonen
Inks: Wade Von Grawbadger
Colors: Marte Gracia

We’re at issue #11 already and things are still rolling. Here are some words that I never thought I would say: Brian Michael Bendis is one of my favorite X-writers of all time.

There have been some legendary writers who have chronicled the exploits of the X-Men; Bendis is more than holding his own. He is bringing his A-game. Bendis has been honing his craft, and now we get to enjoy the work of a master who is prolific enough to put quality work on the stands on a consistent basis. This is issue #11, and I feel like Bendis is just showing us the onion without revealing the multitude of layers beneath the skin. Few in the business today can handle the group dynamic as well as Bendis.

I wouldn’t try to count the number of characters that had a part in this story. I find the interaction between the two Beasts and the two Icemen interesting. They have similar personalities, but they are not carbon copy, “Xerox”, cut and paste, “Photoshopped” versions of each other. Damn, you have to go through a lot of advances in technology just to use figurative language that everyone can understand, and I left out holograms.

Bendis dropped a bomb on us. Angel is leaving the original team to join the Uncanny X-Men. I didn’t expect any of the original X-Men to leave the group, certainly not this early in the storyline. Mystique is off causing her own brand of mischief. She’s messing with the big boys.

Finally, to get this issue filled with all the uncanny there is, the Uncanny Avengers show up to leave us anticipating the next issue. The action was light, but this was a very interesting story. Bendis is exploring relationships within the X-Men. This pulls you into the story and reveals how the characters have grown over the years.

The art is really good. There are two scenes that really catch the eye, the burning factory and the basketball court at night.

I rate All New X-Men #11 Buy Your Own Copy. #2 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter.

Albert Avilla Reviews: Young Avengers #1

Young Avengers #1
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Kieron Gillen
Art: Jamie McKelvie with Mike Norton

(Spoilers)
“Style>Substance”

The story opens up with Kate Bishop waking up the morning after a hook-up with Noh-Varr. Then, the Skrulls attack. Hulkling is running around New York, posing as Spider-Man to fight crime. Another hook-up, this time it’s Hulking and Wiccan. After a heartfelt conversation about being superheroes, Wiccan does a little magic to help Hulkling.

At the local diner, Loki gets a warning from his food. He tries to stop Wiccan, but is interrupted by Miss America. Loki escapes when Hulkling bursts on to the scene. Miss America exits without as much as a word with Hulkling. Wiccan’s surprise for Hulkling is an alternate reality mother. Just what we need, another Skrull. Didn’t we just rid our planet of those filthy aliens? Hulkling’s mother doesn’t agree with Jeff and Rebecca’s parenting; she thinks that she knows better. She calmly disagrees with them, and then, she liquefies their bodies.

This comic book definitely has style, not so much substance. For a first issue, it didn’t get me interested in finding out how the story was going to end. Is this the first time that a member of a superhero team becomes a member through a one-night stand? There are a lot of things going on. Gillen throws us right into the thick of things. I enjoyed the frenetic pace of the action scenes.

Noh-Varr is an interesting character. Hawkeye apparently is a swashbuckler. Let’s hope that there is some semblance of responsibility in her approach to life. We know what we get with Hulkling and Wiccan. Why is Loki on an Avengers team? He is the evil that the original Avengers banded together to defeat. Miss America is the mystery character. Is she just a powerhouse? Does she have a connection with the original Miss America? Why boots with shorts and a jacket? Does she have a connection to the original Miss America?

The art is good comic book art, nothing to complain about, nothing to go on about. I did like how the artists handled the action scenes.

I rated Young Avengers #1 “Read a Friend’s Copy.” #3 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter

Albert Avilla Reviews: The Fearless Defenders #1

The Fearless Defenders #1
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Cullen Bunn
Art: Will Sliney
Cover: Mark Brooks
Variant Covers: Milo Manara; Mike Deodato and Rain Beredo; Skottie Young

The cover was really awesome. That’s what having a great cover is about; it gets your expectations up. The interior of the book did not meet those expectations.

The Defenders have always had trouble attracting readers, and this issue will not do any better. This kind of story could squeak by once the series had established itself. I’m not familiar with Mr. Bunn’s work, so I don’t know if this is leading into a great climax or if this is par for the course. If it’s par for the course, then, I am keeping my money. I like mystery, but too much mystery leaves the reader in the dark.

A first issue should pull you in and build up your expectations. This story made me nostalgic for Indiana Jones movies. Archeology has been the basis for a lot of good comic book stories. My question is where is the evil god behind the artifact that Misty acquired? Give us an awesome villain to look forward to seeing.

Marvel NOW gets a “Marvel scowl” for this venture. Valkyrie and Misty Knight really look cool on the cover. Let’s hope that Mr. Bunn can convert that coolness into good stories.

The interior art didn’t give any more than the writing. It was average comic book art.

I rate The Fearless Defenders #1 “Read a Friend’s Copy.”  #3 (of 5) on Al-O-Meter

Albert Avilla Reviews: Batman #16

Batman #16
DC Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Scott Snyder
Pencils: Greg Capullo
Inks: Jonathan Glapion

“Castle of Cards” (Spoilers)

Snyder has taken us on a ride to the dark side that we won’t soon forget. Each month, for the short amount of time that we take to read this comic masterpiece, we should be thankful for every event that led to this story being produced. Runs like this don’t come very often.

Synder makes a comic story an emotional experience. Everything that makes Batman great comes exploding off these pages. The Joker is pushing Batman to the edge; Batman will have to dig deep to keep himself from jumping over. Synder has a unique talent; he is a maestro using every instrument in the orchestra to present to us a symphony of words and pictures. He burns our emotional skin off and leaves us hypersensitive to the emotions that run through his story. Snyder leaves us awe struck by his creativity. He strikes terror in our hearts with scenes like the flaming horse and the tapestry made from living human bodies.

The depraved humor of the Joker sends chills down your spine, leaving you questioning your sanity for laughing at the Joker’s antics. The Joker has Batman at his wits end, but we know Batman is at the top of his game. He easily dispatches some of his most vicious enemies, and yet the Joker outsmarts him at every turn. The Joker taxes Batman physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s amazing how an insane mind is able to out-think and bluff some of the greatest minds. Action, horror, and sadistic humor: Synder gives it all to us. The Death of the Family crossover is showing us that Synder is out shining his fellow writers in the Batman family of comics. This is definitely a must-read comic. Batman is the best single hero comic that I read.

The art falls in line with the writing; it integrates itself into the greatness of the writing. It is dark and foreboding. It perfectly illustrates the evil.

I rate Batman #16 Recommend It to a Friend. #1 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter

Albert Avilla Reviews: Captain America #3

Captain America #3
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Rick Remender
Pencils: John Romita Jr.
Inks: Klaus Janson

(Spoilers!)
Rick Remender is reminding us of who Captain America is. Throughout this story, Cap’s nobility and courage are displayed.

He escapes from Zofjor, not because he wants to live, but because he wants to protect Ian. Cap is willing to sacrifice his own body to accomplish his goal. Cap’s bravery inspires one of the Phrox to come to his aid. Cap is spared. Cap, always the champion of liberty, begins to convince Ksul that the tribe should stand up to Zofjor. This leads to Ksul being killed by Zofjor. Cap is able to defeat Zofjor, giving the Phrox their freedom.

Remender also gives us a flashback to Cap as a young boy to illustrate that Cap was a hero before he got his powers. The powers didn’t make Cap a hero; they just made him a more powerful hero.

The counterpart to Cap is Arnim Zola. Zola is a vile, wicked (wait, let me get my thesaurus) base, immoral, depraved, and beastly villain. In Zola’s flashback we see the results of his despicable experiments. He has changed his housekeeper Hilda into a foul creature and expects her to be proud of his success. In the present, he leaves the child, Jet, to fight for her life against an army of mutates. If Zola’s villainy is a measuring stick for Cap’s heroism, then, Cap is truly the living legend. At the end of the story, we see why Cap has been suffering. This story arc is slowly earning the status of epic. This is the way that we kick off a new series. Wow! Marvel Now.

With such a good story we need to remember to take some time to enjoy the work of one of the masters of sequential art. John Romita Jr. shows that he can do his thing with any story setting.

I rate Captain America #3 Buy Your Own Copy. #2 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter.

Albert Avilla Reviews: Savage Wolverine #1

Savage Wolverine #1
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer/Artist: Frank Cho
(Spoilers!)

Savage Wolverine in the Savage Land, how else would you start a series? Let’s get savage in this piece.

It’s all Cho all the time. I am not familiar with him as a writer, but I do know that the man can draw a fine ass woman. His first guest star is Shanna, the jungle girl who runs around in a leopard print bikini. I thank you editors at Marvel for not being P.C. and giving this girl another costume that respects her as a strong intelligent woman. That girl has all the important B’s: boobs, booty, and bikini, and Mr. Cho is doing a great job of displaying them all. There is more good news: there is no Kazar or Zabu in sight to take up valuable panel space. I don’t know who else is in a scene when they try to share panel space with Shanna.

The story has good elements. There is foreshadowing beating us across the head. Mystery is keeping us interested in the outcome. Let’s not forget the reason we pick up this mag, Wolvie action. Good-old, vicious, animal attacks and human body parts flying all over the place is what I’m talking about. Even your-friends-stab-you-in-the-gut Wolverine action is in high gear. All of Wolvie’s mutant abilities are on display.

The plot is basic. Shanna and some S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents crash land on a mysterious island. They are unable to escape the island, because nature itself seems to be fighting them. The local tribe kills everyone except Shanna. Wolvie gets dropped into the situation by some mysterious force. Shanna and Oh, Uh, lost my train of thought the boobs are on my mind like crack on a crack head’s mind. Oh, yeah Shanna and Wolverine team up to try and find a way off the island.

I think that I covered the art enough for everyone to get the idea that Cho is the man. His stuff is just appealing to the eye.

I rate Savage Wolverine #1 Buy Your Own Copy. #2 (of 5) on Al-O-Meter Ranking

Albert Avilla Reviews: New Avengers #1

New Avengers #1
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Pencils: Steve Epting
Inks: Rick D’armate & Steve Epting

“Memento Mori” (Spoilers!)

The Illuminati are coming together as a team of Avengers, minus Xavier plus Cap. Does Captain America have to be on every Avenger’s team?

This is a team of big time heavy hitters. Every member is a leader of great significance in the Marvel Universe. Reed Richards and Tony Stark are two of the greatest scientists; Dr. Strange is the greatest mystic. Blackbolt and Namor are kings of two great nations. Captain America is the symbol of his nation. T’Challa is all of these things in one hero, the Black Panther. Just the brainwaves emanating from the group should be able to knock out a few villains.

Oh, let’s not forget the greatest lack of personality, Blackbolt. I tend to forget that he’s in a story with the I-don’t-talk-because-my-voice-is-so-powerful. Learn sign language or something; whistle. With Richards, Stark, Strange, and T’Challa, there will be so much talking and contemplating; Blackbolt should be able to take good, long naps. Let’s hope that the loose cannon, Namor, can get them into some situations that they have to fight their way out of. There are some awesome fighters on the team.

Hickman delivers an emotional story. Three of Wakanda’s brightest stars are viciously killed by visitors from another mission to destroy an earth. If you’re trying to make people hate a villain, then, have them kill good, intelligent children who have a future – not like those little blessings that have been knocking down my garbage cans. The villains destroy the Earth with little effort – setting up the villains as a great challenge for Black Panther. T’Challa with such overwhelming odds facing him calls, in the Illuminati.

Epting’s art is an improvement over his past work. His style is the same, but it seems to be more pleasing to the eye.

I rate New Avengers #1 Buy Your Own Copy. #2 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter

Albert Avilla Reviews: Avengers #2

Avengers #2
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Jerome Opena
Cover: Dustin Weaver & Justin Ponsor
Variant Covers: Esad Ribic; John Romita Jr., Klaus Janson, and Dean White

“We Were Avengers” (Spoilers)
I lamented Bendis leaving the Avengers, but do not worry. Marvel’s greatest heroes have been put in capable hands. Hickman has won me over with a simple roll call story. You know: a story that comes around every so often when the Avengers lineup is changing.

First, we have the core group, the movie Avengers. If you don’t know who they are, then, I suggest that you go watch the DVD; I think it’s out. Next, we have the super popular Wolverine and Spider-man; two characters who have that never-stop-until-you-die fighting spirit. The two characters that I’m glad they have a spot on the team are Captain Marvel and Spider-Woman, no relation to Spider-Man. The Falcon is on the team; as Cap’s partner, this should be his home. It would be cool if Tony would give him an upgrade. What ever happened to Redwing?

The best hand-to hand-fighter in the Marvel Universe is on the team, The Master of Kung Fu, Shang Chi. Bringing youth to the team are Sunspot and Cannonball, the team supreme within the team. Manifold will make anywhere possible; I want to go on vacation with the dude. I want to see the pyramids when they where being built. Smasher puts the Avengers on a level with the Imperial Guard; I can’t wait for an Avengers-in-space story. Captain Universe brings awesome power to the team. The final player in the game is Superman, Oh, sorry! I mean Hyperion. Come on, we know that Hyperion is Marvel’s Superman. Think about it, Superman in the Avengers; get ready for some big time throwing down.

I enjoyed the humor. It is a good idea to keep the past lives of Smasher, Captain Marvel, and Hyperion under wraps for now; I’m expecting some good future stories. The Avengers have definitely gotten bigger. The villainous forces of Marveldom better step up their plotting and scheming.

The rest of the story gives the origin of Ex Nihilo and Abyss. They begin their transformation of Earth, and Cap marshals the new team for their attack on Ex Nihilo. It’s going to be on.

The art is unique in the good way; Opena’s style is beautiful. The coloring is detailed without giving the art that puzzle piece look. The character’s expressions are appropriate and related to the character’s emotions.

I rate Avengers #2 Buy Your Own Copy. #2 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter Ranking.

Albert Avilla Reviews: Thunderbolts #1

Thunderbolts #1
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Daniel Way
Artist: Steve Dillon
Cover: Julian Totino Tedesco

“Enlisted” (Spoilers)

Red Hulk is putting together the new team of Thunderbolts; that’s right General Thunderbolt Ross is putting together a team called the Thunderbolts. What great mind came up with that idea?

The story begins with the General setting The Punisher up for the mob. While General Ross is pitching his project to the Punisher, we travel with the General on his recruiting trip. He talks to the prospective members at moments when they just happen to be splattering the blood of bad people. The other recruits are just as adept at splattering blood as the Punisher. We have Venom with weapons! The mime-killer, Deadpool, will add a little humor. To add the feminine touch to the blood splattering, Electra will be stabbing her way through the criminal world.

With this team, the biggest concern will be that they don’t drown themselves in the blood that they spill. Spill is too weak of a word to use, because there will be blood erupting out of their victims. Another concern is will Deadpool be able to find a straight man to play off of? Think about it: Deadpool with Punisher, Venom, Electra, and old stick-up-his-butt Ross.

Daniel Way does manage to tell a good story through all of the blood. Old Thunderbolt is both introspective and illuminating in his conversation with the Punisher. The most fascinating thing that he said was that the military studied the Punisher’s tactics and emulated them. The question is will the Punisher be able to adapt to a team situation.

When you talk about a signature style, Steve Dillon stands out. He does not try to imitate the popular style of the day. Dillon does his thing. His tough gritty style fits the team. Guru EFX’s coloring actually compliments Dillon’s efforts.

I rate Thunderbolts #1 Buy Your Own Copy. #2 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter.

Albert Avilla Reviews: Indestructible Hulk #2

Indestructible Hulk # 2
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Mark Waid
Pencils: Leinil Yu
Inks: Gerry Alanguilan

(Spoilers!)
Hulk, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. is a good premise. This new direction for the Hulk is an excellent idea. Banner has decided to embrace the idea of being the Hulk, and using him in situations where he can do good. Why keep a potential force for good relegated to the status of criminal?

The Hulk is the ultimate stick for S.H.I.E.L.D. to wield. You better be committed to whatever terrorism you are thinking about, knowing that the Hulk might be a consequence of your actions. Just think about the money S.H.I.E.L.D. can save. Why develop any weapons? All you need is a truck; put Hulk in the back, and drive to the scene. “What’s up now Hydra? Suck on this!” Drop off the Hulk, end of evildoing.

This issue is about Banner being a super-scientist on a level with Reed Richards. With this new situation, Banner will have time to work, which should have a calming effect on him. He has a goal of completing an invention a week. I can’t complete any of my chores on the honey-do list each week.

Iron Man pays a visit to check out the situation, but he is unknowingly set up by Banner for a good-old, stress-relieving butt-kicking. This story would be a good bridge between two good story arcs, but as it stands, it’s just an unnecessary character developing story. When we pick up a Hulk mag, we expect more Hulk-smash for our money, not a sparring match with Iron Man.

The art is passable. The coloring goes a little too far; it makes the art look like pieces of a puzzle. A lighter hand may make the art more engaging.

I rate Indestructible Hulk 002 Read a Friend’s Copy. #3 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter

Albert Avilla Reviews: Red Lanterns #14

Red Lanterns #14
DC Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Peter Milligan writer
Artist: Miguel Sepulveda

“Home Is Where the Heart Is” (Spoilers!)

In the “Rise of the Third Army” event this is where the action is. The Red Lanterns are fighting the Third Army. The Red Lanterns have found their weakness and destroyed the creatures through their eyes. We are not talking about let’s subdue these creatures and take them in kind of action. This is fight to the death: tear off arms, body parts flying all over the place action. The Red Lanterns are able to defeat the creatures, but not without the lost of Skorch.

Atrocitus takes the remains of one of the creatures to Ysmault to find the origins of the creatures. Using his blood magic, Atrocitus learns that the creatures come from the DNA of the Guardians. These are some really gruesome scenes; if horror is your thing, then this is the book for you. Atrocitus’s animosity toward the Guardians is increasing. Atrocitus gives his Lanterns missions to seek out the blood of the guilty to feed the Red Power Battery; a leader delegating responsibility. Then, bam! The creature regenerates from a rat; you can’t get away from those little B’s anywhere in the Universe, and it attacks. Atrocitus, being the battle leader that he is, instantly comes up with a plan to destroy the creature. Artist Miguel Sepulveda gives us another blood-splattering, gore-fest page.

Atrocitus comes up with another plan to defeat the Third Army by using a synthetic army, the Manhunters. Rankorr is sent to Earth to get his vengeance and become a true Red Lantern. Atrocitus returns to Ayutt, his home planet, where he relives the destruction of Sector 666 by the Manhunters. If you like science fiction, superhero throw-down, and blood and guts action, then, look no farther.

Milligan keeps the action rolling, and when there is a pause in the action, it’s building up to some more action. Milligan keeps the intensity level high and the story is well done. The characters are exciting and vibrant; they are not just rage-filled maniacs running around the Universe, killing the guilty, but the rage does give these characters that certain spice to their personalities. Atrocitus is quite fascinating, with his intelligence and leadership shining through the rage. This book is a punch in the gut that sends shivers down the back.

The art is horrifically wonderful, and it accentuates the writing completely. After he has splattered this bloody rage throughout the book, Sepulveda surprises us with a landscape of a beautiful country town. What did his teachers say when they caught him drawing these scenes in elementary school?

I rate Red Lanterns 14 Buy Your Own Copy. (#2 on the Al-O-Meter Ranking)

Albert Avilla Reviews: Green Lantern #14

Green Lantern #14
DC Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Geoff Johns
Pencils: Doug Mahnke
Inks: Christian Alamy, Mark Irwin, Keith Champagne and Tom Nguyen

“Courage” (Spoilers!)

The Guardians are planning to destroy the Green Lantern Corps. Okay, we covered this before. Now, it’s time for the new Lantern to get into some action. The Justice League is on the scene; there is going to be some major throwing-down going on in this piece, yeah, buddy!

Nope! We get some jibber-jabber about helping Simon Baz get his ring off and finding out what happened to Hal Jordan . Once Batman puts his hands on the ring, Sinestro uses the ring’s energy to slap the Justice League off. Baz decides to run; he makes a car and fast and furiously gets his ass out of that situation. Don’t let the cover fool you; not a punch, a lasso, batarang, or trident was used in the making of this comic. How does Baz make his getaway? He confuses the League by making hundreds of cars and driving away.

Simon gets a lead on the van that blew up in the car factory. The Guardians who were guarding the vault are locked in the vault and the First Lantern is on the loose. Now, the Black Lantern shows up trying to find out where he is. Not finished yet; hold on. Some ominous figure shows up in the place where Hal and Sinestro are, and he’s ready to make Sinestro pay for his crimes. There are a lot of things happening in this story. The background has been set for this story. Now, let’s tie up the loose ends; it’s time to rumble. All this crossing-over and the only place that I can find some action is in the Red Lanterns.

The art is good. It is the strength of the book. The Justice League looks good. The artists are carrying their share of the load.

I rate Green Lantern 14 Read a Friend’s Copy. #3 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter Ranking

Albert Avilla Reviews: Batman #14

Batman #14
DC Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Scott Synder
Pencils: Greg Capullo
Inks: Jonathan Glapion
Cover: Greg Capullo and FCO Plascencia
Variant Cover: Trevor McCarthy variant

“Funny Bones” (Spoilers!)

This is another gem from Mr. Synder. Batman has to get out of a minor difficulty in the beginning; Synder makes it a heroic moment. The Joker didn’t kill Alfred; he kidnapped him, because he needed a butler. Synder does a masterful job of illustrating the Joker’s unpredictable and fearsome nature through Commissioner Gordon. Gordon is breaking down from the pressure that the Joker is putting on his life, and to top it off, the Joker almost kills Gordon.

The Joker is always attacking physically and psychologically. I am afraid to read this stuff. It takes great strength and resolve to face him in battle. Batman tries to outthink him, but the Joker is always two steps ahead of him. Joker has his own arsenal of gadgets that keep Batman at his wit’s end. The Joker’s new sewn on his face adds to the Joker’s maniacal persona, if that is even possible. He is awesomely frightening in the new face. The Joker throws the Bat world into chaos when he claims to know everyone’s identity and predicts that they will be dead in seventy-two hours by Batman’s hands. The Joker not only has the Bat Family in turmoil, he also has the Gotham underworld in chaos. The Joker is that relative that everybody is happy when he leaves.

We learn that he has set up the Penguin to help him in his plot to destroy the Batman in a six-page extra, entitled “Men of Worship.” This is a whole other level of heroic fantasy.

The art just adds to the terror and gruesomeness of the story. I don’t usually enjoy the dark style in comics, but this is the only way this story should be illustrated. The splash page with Gordon and Batman is a masterpiece of terror.

I rate Batman #14 Buy Your Own Copy. #2 (of 5) on the Al-O-Meter Ranking

Albert Avilla Reviews: Uncanny Avengers 002

Uncanny Avengers 002
Marvel Comics

Reviewed by Albert Avilla

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: John Cassaday
Cover: John Cassaday and Laura Martin
Variant Cover: Milo Manara

(Spoilers!)
There is a battle going on for my comic book dollars, and the number one contender is the Uncanny Avengers. I’ve already put it on my pull list. The number one reason is Remender’s writing.

When I saw that the Red Skull was going to be the first adversary of the Uncanny Avengers, I thought, oh boy, some of the same old same-old. I’m wrong so often it’s easy for me to admit when I am wrong. Remender handles the Skull well; he has a good insight into who the Skull is. Who better to use as the catalyst to further incite the humans’ hatred of the mutants than the former henchman of Adolf Hitler.

Remender’s writing exposes the evil that the Skull is. He uses our desire to find something to blame for what is not right in the world and amplifies it into a maniacal hatred. He is a master of human psychology; this is vividly illustrated in his attempt to recruit the Scarlet Witch. With his powers, Professor Xavier was able to subdue Wanda, using psychological weaknesses from her father issues to her own concern about being a powerful mutant. The Skull is always able to find minions whom he can convert to his cause and who are willing to sacrifice their humanity to serve him. They are just tools to help accomplish his goals, to be disposed of once used.

At the same time, Remender gives us examples of good. The first is when Xavier takes a stand against the other X-Men when he first accepted Rogue into the X-Men. This was a pivotal moment in the young woman’s life, saving her from a fall into the darkness. Rogue has been a warrior who has turned battles in the favor of the X-Men. Another is the Uncanny X-Men helping clean up the site that Avalanche destroyed. That’s good people when they party with you all night long and help you clean up the mess afterward.

Another thing that I like about Remender is he does not forget the characters’ past; he builds on them. Remender gives everybody their moment in the story; no one character is more important to the story than the other. Thor is nothing but hero. He could be chilling in Asgard, but he’s on Earth taking up the mutant cause with Cap [Captain America, of course – Ed.]. He is giving the Scarlet Witch more of an edge and a sense that she is superior to others. The Skull has the power of Charles Xavier. He was hell before; now what kind of mischief will our little red goblin get into?

The art is “wow” at every turn. Every panel is a masterpiece of sequential art. Sometimes, I get the feeling that the dialogue is interfering with my enjoyment of good art. Can we get Thor a spa day or a godly makeover; the dude is looking rough in his work clothes. What ever happened to godly raiment?

I rate Uncanny Avengers 002 Recommend it to a Friend. Highest ranking on the Al-O-Meter